LB14

Christian Jones

ILB Florida St.

Grade

4.74 SEC

33.5 INCH

115.0 INCH

Overview

Two-time second-team All-ACC pick (2012-13). 2013: Played in 13 games and made 12 starts. Was suspended for Bethune-Cookman game for a violation of team rules. Made seven tackles in the BCS Championship against Auburn. 2012: Started all 14 games at WILL linebacker. Led team with 95 tackles and had team's only defensive touchdown of the season at South Florida. 2011: Started all 13 games at SAM linebacker. Was second on the team with 56 tackles. 2010: Played in all 14 games as true freshman on special teams with spot duty at linebacker. Recipient of the Devaughn Darling Award, given to the team's top freshman on defense.

Analysis

Strengths

Looks the part. Physical tackler. Highly athletic. Fast and rangy -- flows laterally and chases sideline to sideline. Willing to take on lead blocks. Drops easily into zone and gets depth. Able to match with tight ends in coverage. Versatile -- has played Will, Sam and defensive end. Looked more explosive off the edge as a senior. Uses his arms and hands to press, tug and rip free. Good flexibility and agility to flatten and shows closing burst to the quarterback. Four-down utility and core special-teams potential. Tough, durable, three-year starter. Loves football and works at it.

Weaknesses

Is a bit high-waisted. Average instincts slow his play speed -- still developing diagnostic skills. Hesitates to read and react. Can be more physical at the point of attack. Tends to slip or run around blocks. Needs to improve hand use. Does not jolt blockers and too often gets stuck. Short initial steps as a rush end. Could stand to improve pass-rush arsenal. Power element is missing. Average production -- does not leave his imprint on enough games.

Draft Projection

Rounds 2-3

Bottom Line

Chiseled, height-weight-speed see-and-go reactor with intriguing athleticism, versatility and upside who shows in flashes, but leaves evaluators wanting more. Is likely to boost his stock during the pre-draft process, and could warrant consideration from 4-3 teams as a Sam or Will, or from 3-4 teams as a rush linebacker. Play will reach another level if/when his processor speed catches up to his physical talent.
-Nolan Nawrocki